A High School Senior Photoshoot at Ruins Hall | Ever | August 18, 2025
Graffiti and woodsy natural environment locations aren't my usual photography scene. But they were perfect for Ever. Ever wouldn’t define themselves as typical, either. When I asked Ever how they would describe themselves, they struggled to find the words, so I started quickly calling out personality traits: quiet, silly, dramatic, extroverted, eccentric. They stopped me there: "Eccentric—that." I had fun with that word. There are many sides to Ever, and I tried to bring out each one in turn, then weave them all together. It was a blast! And as always with senior sessions, I aimed to show the child still within, along with the adult they are becoming. Ever certainly has a silly side, too! And, a perfect set of locations to highlight that.
The graffiti at Ruins Hall isn't what you might think. It’s actually being preserved—a place to celebrate it. You can rent the space for events, and yes, it can even be reserved for photoshoots. While I struggle to decipher the lettering and read the words in most graffiti art, I can definitely appreciate the talent it takes to create such works. There are destructive markings with spray paint, and then there’s art made with paint that sprays from a can. Wow. There were some fantastic pieces at Ruins Hall. I particularly liked the sunset. While editing, my son peered over my shoulder and asked if it was a real sun—a true testament to the artist's skill.
I used that “sun” to light up Ever throughout their session on a cloudy day. Come to think of it, I never considered where the sun would have been if it had been out. It’s possible it would have been an entirely different photo shoot if the sun had been out. It could have ruined everything! I wonder if I’ll ever go back to find out?
After exploring the ruins, we drove twenty minutes to find the perfect trees at Codorus State Park. The rows of pines near the pebble beach were exactly what they wanted, and I was excited to share that favorite spot with them. Please scroll down to see how I wrapped up the shoot, as I usually do with my high school seniors and graduates. Enjoy this small sample of photos from this fun and quirky photo session.
Ever, I had such a great time photographing you. Thank you for trusting me to showcase who you are to everyone who sees these photos. The photos will always be there for you to look back on and remember this moment in your life’s journey. I look forward to hearing about the school you choose next year. They would all be lucky to have you. Enjoy your final year of high school, and good luck with your future plans. You are truly a shining light. Keep that light safe and bright. And since you've waited long enough for me to get back from my mini-vacation, please ask your mom to check her email later tonight for a surprise!
Hugs,
Megan
